Konasana - Angle Pose

"Kona" is the Sanskrit word for 'angle'. This pose serves as a warm up pose for more complicated angle poses like Baddha Konasana, Upavistha Konasana etc.

Sequence:

1. Stand erect with your hands on both sides. The palms should be touching the thighs.
2. Gradually separate your legs until they are about two to three feet apart.
3. Raise both your hands till shoulder level.
4. Stretch them out and align them parallel to your shoulder.
5. Inhale and bend to your right side sliding the right hand down the right thigh and raising the left hand straight up.
6. Try to stretch the right hand more and touch the right ankle with your fingers.
7. Keep the left hand straight without bending the elbow.
8. Bring down the left hand and place it on your waist.
9. Hold this posture for a few seconds.
10. Exhaling return to the standing position with your hands stretched out parallel.
11. Do not move you feet.
12. Repeat the same steps on the other side, alternating the hands.

Caution:

• Do not jump to create distance between your legs.
• Never overstretch yourself while trying to reach the ankles.
• Patients of spondylitis and hypertension should not practice this posture.

 

Benefits:

• This pose is helpful in relieving back pain.
• Flexibility of the spine increases.